Unleashing freedom with off-grid power
There's a rugged allure to the open road—a call to break away from the mundane and embrace a life where every mile tells a story. Enter the Airstream Basecamp Xe Travel Trailer, a 20-foot, single-axle marvel designed for those who live on the edge and crave independence from civilization. This isn’t just another travel trailer; it’s a statement of adventure.
Cutting-Edge Off-Grid Technology
In an era where sustainability meets high performance, the Airstream Basecamp Xe Travel Trailer redefines off-grid travel. It comes equipped with 600W of rooftop solar panels, a fully inverted 30A electrical system, and a 10.3-kWh lithium Battle Born battery pack paired with a 3,000W inverter. This combination isn’t just about powering lights and chargers—it’s engineered to handle high-draw appliances like air conditioners and microwaves, giving you the freedom to roam further without sacrificing modern comforts.
A pre-wired port for an extra 300W of solar panels further boosts energy collection, ensuring that your journey remains uninterrupted even in the remotest corners. Swapping out traditional gas-powered appliances for all-electric options, this trailer leads the charge into a more efficient, sustainable future—all while maintaining that iconic Airstream spirit.
Rugged Build for Rough Terrain
The Airstream Basecamp Xe Travel Trailer isn’t built for the casual road trip. Engineered for the wild, its rugged design features a factory-installed 3-inch lift, aggressive Goodyear Wrangler tires, and stone guards to fend off the harshest terrain. A redesigned LP shroud not only shields the onboard 20-pound propane system but also offers extra storage for your gear and essentials. Whether you're navigating mountain passes or dust-covered backroads, this trailer promises durability and resilience.
Ingenious Interior Design
Step inside, and the narrative of adventure continues. Designed with versatility in mind, the interior of the Airstream Basecamp Xe Travel Trailer is spacious enough for up to four adventurers. An expansive galley, dedicated sleeping spaces, and a convertible dinette that transforms into an additional bed blur the lines between comfort and function. Clever touches like a dedicated wet storage compartment, which doubles as a cooler, and a shower equipped with L-track mounting points for hanging wet gear, speak to thoughtful design meant for those who live life on the go.
Practicality meets modern innovation with all-electric appliances—think a portable induction cooktop (perfect for outdoor use) and an electric refrigerator—ensuring that you can savor the freedom of the road without any compromise. And when the chill of night sets in, a Truma Combi eco plus two-in-one RV furnace and water heater—capable of running on electricity, propane, or both—keeps the interior warm and inviting.
The Legacy of Airstream
Airstream has long been synonymous with travel independence, dating back over 70 years to the first self-contained recreational vehicles. The Airstream Basecamp Xe Travel Trailer carries that legacy forward, building on the design innovations of its predecessors like the eStream Concept Travel Trailer and the Trade Wind®. It’s more than a travel trailer—it’s a rolling piece of history updated for today’s eco-conscious, off-grid adventurer.
Its compact, lightweight design means you can tow it with a mid-size SUV, opening up a world of possibilities. With features such as an aggressive departure angle and large wheels that take on gravel and debris, the Basecamp Xe is ready to tackle roads less traveled, making it the ideal companion for those who dare to explore.
Final Thoughts
For the traveler who refuses to settle for the ordinary, the Airstream Basecamp Xe Travel Trailer is a game changer. It fuses cutting-edge technology with rugged durability and thoughtful design, making it the perfect blend of functionality and comfort. Starting at $76,900, this is an investment in a lifestyle defined by freedom, adventure, and the relentless pursuit of the unknown.
Embrace the journey, and let the Airstream Basecamp Xe Travel Trailer be your passport to uncharted territories. Your next great adventure awaits—off the grid and on your own terms.
Pros
- Enhanced Off-Grid Capabilities: The trailer boasts 600W of rooftop solar panels, a fully inverted 30A electrical system, a 10.3-kWh lithium Battle Born battery pack, and a 3,000W inverter—powering even high-draw appliances while keeping you off the grid.
- Rugged and Adventure-Ready Design: With a factory-installed 3-inch lift, aggressive Goodyear Wrangler tires, stone guards, and a redesigned LP shroud, this trailer is built to withstand rough terrain and harsh conditions.
- Versatile Interior Layout: The spacious 20-foot floor plan is engineered for flexibility, featuring a dedicated sleeping area, a convertible dinette, an expansive galley, and smart storage solutions like the dedicated wet storage compartment.
- Efficient and Sustainable Systems: Upgraded to an all-electric appliance suite—including an induction cooktop and electric refrigerator—the Basecamp Xe emphasizes energy efficiency and sustainability, while still retaining a propane backup for essential services.
- Towing Flexibility: Its compact, lightweight design allows it to be towed by a variety of mid-size SUVs, expanding your travel possibilities without the need for a heavy-duty tow vehicle.
Cons
- High Cost: Priced at $76,900, the Basecamp Xe is a significant jump from the entry-level 16-foot Basecamp, which starts at $48,300, potentially limiting its accessibility to budget-conscious travelers.
- Complex Electrical System: The advanced solar and electrical setup, while innovative, may require more intricate maintenance and troubleshooting, posing a challenge for those less familiar with modern off-grid technology.
- Limited Space for Larger Groups: Although designed for up to four people, the 20-foot layout may feel constrained for larger families or groups who need more living space during extended trips.
- Dependence on Technology: The reliance on cutting-edge all-electric appliances and systems means that any technical malfunction could impact multiple functionalities, potentially leaving you stranded in remote locations.
Verdict
The Airstream Basecamp Xe Travel Trailer is a bold evolution of the classic Airstream design, blending advanced off-grid technology with rugged durability and innovative interior flexibility. While its premium price tag and sophisticated systems might pose challenges for some, the trailer’s ability to deliver a sustainable, adventure-ready experience makes it a compelling choice for modern explorers. If you're ready to invest in a lifestyle defined by freedom and the pursuit of the road less traveled, the Basecamp Xe stands out as a top contender in the realm of off-grid travel trailers.
Starting $76,900
The Aero Cabin One by Smitveld offers a compelling alternative for campers seeking innovation in a compact package. Unlike the larger Airstream Basecamp Xe, this 17.4-foot expandable trailer is engineered for versatility and ease of towing with its lightweight 1,984-lb design, making it ideal for couples or those frequenting well-equipped campgrounds. When deployed, its pop-up roof and frontal slide-out create a spacious interior complete with a family-friendly wide entry, an open kitchen boasting a triple-burner stove and 70-L fridge/freezer with dual access, and an almost king-sized bed with Froli springs for restorative sleep. Although it lacks a bathroom, the Aero Cabin One’s emphasis on innovative design, stylish aesthetics, and a seamless indoor-outdoor living experience makes it a standout choice for modern adventurers, all for around US$41,150.
